The INSIGHT study: How can artificial intelligence be used in gynecological cancer psychosocial education

Abstract

Introduction: Gynecological cancer (GC) survivors frequently experience unmet educational and psychosocial needs throughout survivorship. Individuals are increasingly turning to generative artificial intelligence (AI) for information and support; however, the potential role of patient-facing AI tools in addressing psychosocial needs during cancer survivorship remains understudied. This study aims to generate expert-informed recommendations for the responsible use of patient-facing AI powered tools to enhance psychosocial survivorship care for individuals affected by GC. Methods: Employing a Delphi design, we will recruit approximately 45 panelists across Canada via snowball sampling, representing seven expert groups: patients with lived experience, cancer clinical care professionals, health communication specialists, cancer education experts, AI experts, bioethicists, and psychotherapists. Prior to Delphi, one panelist from each expert group will participate in a Think Tank to generate initial statements about how patient-facing AI-powered tools can be used, along with challenges, risks, and key principles. Delphi participants will complete three rounds of online surveys. Round 1 will explore and rank the importance of statements; Rounds 2 and 3 will refine responses and build consensus. Responses will be analyzed using qualitative content analysis and descriptive statistics. Results: The Think Tank panelists generated an initial set of statements across four domains: 16 on uses of patient-facing AI tools, 30 on challenges, 14 on risks, and 19 on key principles. Key concerns identified by panelists, including privacy, misinformation, and the appropriate extent of AI’s role in care, will further be examined through subsequent Delphi rounds, with the goal of establishing consensus and actionable recommendations. Conclusion: Although AI has shown promise in providing comprehensive information in areas such as genetic counseling, guidance on using AI responsibly in survivorship remains limited. This project advances equity and inclusion by incorporating diverse perspectives to develop recommendations. It also supports equitable access to supportive care, particularly for underserved GC survivors.Principal Investigator: Jacqueline Galica